How Do I Find My VAT Number?

If you’re setting up a business in the UK, you’ll need to register for Value Added Tax (VAT). Once you’ve registered, you’ll be assigned a VAT number which you’ll need to include on all invoices and other financial documents. In this article, we’ll look at how to find your VAT number if you’ve already registered.

A Value Added Tax (VAT) number is a unique identifier assigned by HMRC to businesses that are registered for VAT in the United Kingdom. It is a 9-digit number that distinguishes your business from others and is essential for dealing with VAT-related transactions.

1. Legal Requirement: If your business is VAT-registered and your taxable turnover exceeds a certain threshold (currently £85,000), you are legally obligated to have a VAT number.
2. Credibility: Having a VAT registration number enhances your business's credibility and professionalism in the eyes of suppliers, clients, and other businesses.‍
3. VAT Transactions: Your VAT number is important for conducting transactions that involve VAT collection and payment.

You are required to provide your VAT number when:

1. Selling goods or services that are subject to VAT
2. Invoicing customers
3. Filing VAT returns
4. Reclaiming VAT on business purchases
5. Including VAT numbers on advertising and marketing materials

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If you need to find a company's VAT number, you have a few options:

1. Check the Company's Invoices or Receipts: VAT-registered businesses are required to display their VAT number on invoices and receipts.
2. Visit the Company's Website: Many businesses list their VAT number on their website, usually in the footer or on the 'Contact Us' page.
3. Government’s Check VAT Number Service: You can use the government’s Check a UK VAT Number service to search for a company's VAT number. 
4. Contact the Company Directly: If any of the above methods don’t work, reach out to the company directly and ask for the VAT number.

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To find your company's VAT number, you can follow these steps:

1. Check Your VAT Registration Certificate: The VAT registration certificate issued by HMRC contains your VAT number. Keep this certificate in a safe and easily accessible place.
2. Check Your VAT Returns: If you don’t have VAT registration certification on hand or are unable to find one, check your VAT returns. The VAT number is included in the VAT return form you submit to HMRC. 
3. Contact HMRC: If you're unable to locate your VAT number, you can contact HMRC for assistance. You can call the VAT helpline on 1800 or 0300 200 3700 or send an email to the VAT general inquiries mailbox at vatgeneralenquiries@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk. You can also reach out to HMRC online through the live chat.
4. Check Your Accounting Software: If you use online accounting software to track your financial transactions, your VAT number can be included in the software settings.

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1. How Many Digits Is a Company VAT Number?

A UK VAT number consists of 9 digits, usually starting with the country code (e.g., "GB") followed by the 9 digits unique to your business.

2. Is the Company Number and VAT Number the Same?

No, the company number and VAT number are not the same. The company number is a separate registration assigned by Companies House, while the VAT number is issued by HMRC for VAT-related transactions. Each serves a distinct purpose in business operations.

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